International – Activities at HAUS Transatlantic encounters: exchange, networking, and alumni activities
In spring and summer 2025, transatlantic exchange was the focus of numerous activities organized by the HAUS network. From the visit of Rector Prof. Dr Frauke Melchior to New York to networking events for US students and researchers in Heidelberg to the traditional meeting of Heidelberg students in the USA program, a wide range of opportunities for exchange and deepening German-American relations were created.
The US branch of Ruperto Carola and Heidelberg Alumni U.S. welcomed visitors from Heidelberg in April: Rector Prof. Dr Frauke Melchior came to New York to see the work of the Heidelberg University Association at German House. The New York branch office is located here together with other German university offices, the DAAD, and the DFG. During her visit, Frauke Melchior also met with Consul General Till Knorn and discussed the current challenges and opportunities in transatlantic cooperation. A highlight of her visit was the meet and greet with HAUS members and other partners at German House. In her speech, the rector emphasized the important role of alumni for Heidelberg University and provided information about current developments at Ruperto Carola. She also thanked Kathleen Lance, president of HAUS, for her many years of service. A roundtable discussion with Frauke Melchior on current developments in the higher education landscape met with great interest. Numerous research alumni, postdocs, and other interested parties accepted the invitation to attend at the American Council on Germany (ACG) in Midtown Manhattan. The discussion was moderated by alumnus Dr Steven Sokol, president of the ACG.
On this side of the Atlantic, HAI teamed up with the HAUS Chapter Heidelberg to host a Spring Kick-off event in Heidelberg on 8 May 2025, inviting local alumni with US backgrounds, current students, and visiting scholars from the US. Newcomers who had just started their studies, exchange semester, or research stay in Heidelberg had the opportunity to exchange ideas and network with alumni in a relaxed atmosphere.
The opportunity to benefit from the experiences of those who have been living in the city on the Neckar for some time was particularly appreciated – whether it was to get tips on finding accommodation, gather ideas for hikes or excursion destinations, or even to explore career prospects. One impression that came up repeatedly was that, in the current political situation, many of those who have moved to Europe from overseas, and to Heidelberg in particular, feel very much at home – above all because of the openness of the exchange.
On 1 July 2025, future and former Heidelberg exchange students, as well as students from Ruperto Carola's US partner universities, gathered for the traditional summer meeting of students in the USA program. For the fourth time in a row, the event was held at the Mark Twain Center for Transatlantic Relations in Heidelberg – a perfect location for fostering relations and mutual understanding between Germany and the USA. The future exchange students took the opportunity to get helpful tips and last-minute information from those who had just returned. Katja Simons, head of Heidelberg University's New York office, also attended the meeting, which took place during her week-long visit to Ruperto Carola. She presented the students with the offerings of HAI and HAUS as well as networking opportunities in the US.
On 3 July 2025, HAI and HAUS invited US students and doctoral candidates at Ruperto Carola to a meeting at the floating restaurant Pier IV in Heidelberg to inform them about the services offered by HAI and HAUS and to integrate them into the global network at an early stage. Despite the hot temperatures, lively discussions and networking took place. The event was supported by the Lance Fund, a fundraising initiative that connects US students and researchers with the HAUS network during their stay in Heidelberg. Participants included members of the HAUS Heidelberg Chapter as well as Jella Friedrich (HAI) and Katja Simons.
SAVE THE DATE
Please note the following events:
29-31 Aug 2025: GAIN25 annual meeting | Boston
GAIN25 is the annual conference and talent fair of the German Academic International Network (GAIN). It is the largest gathering of German universities, funding organizations, and scientists abroad. This year, it will take place in Boston from 29 to 31 August. The target audience is postdocs, scientists, and experts from all disciplines who are interested in career paths and funding opportunities in Germany.
3-5 Oct 2025: 17th HAUS National Meeting | Chicago
US alumnae and alumni are cordially invited to attend HAUS's 17th National Meeting in Chicago, which will take place from 3-5 October 2025. In addition to the opportunity to rekindle old friendships and welcome new alumnae and alumni to the HAUS circle, the event will celebrate their shared connection to Heidelberg University. Numerous lectures and discussions will be offered, as well as an architectural tour along the Chicago River.
Register by 7 September 2025 at the latest!
